Irish IT solutions provider Westbourne IT Global Services has announced the international expansion of its operations with the official opening of its first overseas office in Auckland, New Zealand by Minister for Economic Development the Hon. Steven Joyce.

The strategic move to Auckland establishes Westbourne IT Global Services’ international footprint, allowing the company to provide a 24/7/365 ‘Follow the Sun’ solution for its customers.

The New Zealand office has created 20 new jobs to date, and is expected to double in size over the next 12 months, as it continues to recruit bilingual English and Japanese, Korean and Chinese speaking technical staff to meet demand in its new office. As clients with global footprints utilise Westbourne IT’s ability to provide consistent support across regions and different languages.

When looking to expand overseas Westbourne IT Global Services considered five locations; Auckland, Japan, Singapore, Sydney and Melbourne. Auckland became the clear winner due to the available IT expertise, commercial opportunities, shared culture and supportive relationships, said John O’Sullivan, Founder and CEO of Westbourne IT Global Services.

“As part of our international expansion plans, we want to actively seek new business opportunities in the Asia Pacific region, as well as, provide 24/7/365 support for all clients, across EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and North America . The opening of our first international office in Auckland is a significant step for us. It was crucial that we had access to the right skills and a supportive network which we have found through Enterprise Ireland and ATEED, enabling us to get off to the best possible start.

“The New Zealand office will also enhance and increase the company’s existing jobs in Cork, as Westbourne IT’s headquarters will provide back office support for the expanding group.”

Welcoming the announcement Mary Kinnane, Enterprise Ireland’s Director for Australia / New Zealand, said: “Today’s announcement by Westbourne IT Global Services showcases how, through working in partnership, Enterprise Ireland can support indigenous Irish companies to grow and expand internationally, helping them win new business in global markets.”

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) is the region’s economic growth agency, and its experienced international business attraction specialists played a key role in helping Westbourne establish its Auckland office.

Steve Armitage, ATEED acting General Manager Business Attraction and Investment, says: “Westbourne IT is a great example of the successful, high-tech companies which can help Auckland become an innovation hub of the Asia-Pacific.

“ATEED is focused on attracting multi-national companies which provide high-value jobs and direct investment into Auckland, helping them to connect with the right people and businesses, and ensuring we help their continued growth. We are delighted that Westbourne is thriving in Auckland.”